Annual seasonal motorized use restrictions now in effect in Wood River Valley
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TWIN FALLS, Idaho – The Bureau of Land Management Shoshone Field Office has implemented annual seasonal motorized use restrictions in the Wood River Valley to protect wintering deer and elk. The seasonal restrictions are for BLM-managed land only and will lift on April 30, 2021.
“As we approach the winter season, big game herds will begin returning to their historic winter range in the valley,” said Shoshone Field Office Wildlife Biologist Jesse Rawson. “Deer and elk experience adversity even during mild winters, so limiting additional stress and providing for secluded winter habitat is important to maintain the health of big game herds throughout the season.”
Most BLM-managed land in the Wood River Valley remains open to motorized use. All recreationists, motorized and non-motorized alike, are encouraged to consider their potential impacts to deer and elk in the area this winter and to adjust their actions accordingly to minimize disturbance.
Following are the areas that are closed to motorized use, including snowmobiles, from Dec. 1, 2020 to April 30, 2021.
· Martin/ Big Dry Canyon
· Croy Creek to south of Townsend Gulch
· Big and Little Beaver Drainages
· South slopes above East Fork
· Elk Mountain area
· Portions of Picabo Hills
The BLM patrols these areas to monitor and enforce restrictions. A map detailing the restrictions is attached, and hard copies are available at the Shoshone Field Office at 400 West F Street in Shoshone. For additional information, please contact Outdoor Recreation Planner John Kurtz at (208) 732-7296.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.